Michu announces retirement, aged 31

Former Swansea City forward Michu has retired from the game at the age of 31, confirmed via his official Twitter account.

The former Spanish international has consistently suffered from an ankle problem and was only able to make 12 appearances for Segunda side Real Oviedo last season, prompting a decision to call time on his playing career.

“According to medical reports, the current situation of my right ankle has come to a point where it has forced me to say goodbye as a professional football player today,” Michu said in a statement.

“Even though I am saying farewell to you with so much sorrow, I know that we will always be united.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the magical moments that you have given to me during all this time.

“I feel privileged to have fulfilled a dream that is shared by so many of us since childhood. The dream of becoming a professional player in this sport.

“Because of you, the public have given me an invaluable affection that I will never be able to repay. Indeed, I feel I have done nothing to deserve it all.”

Michu, began his playing career with hometown club Oviedo, before moving to Celta Vigo and then Rayo Vallecano.

Impressive performances for the latter in 2011/2012 saw him gain interest from a number of Premier League sides and move to Welsh side Swansea City developed.

22 goals in his debut season for the Swans saw him score against Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. He would gain international recognition too, making his debut for the Spanish national side against Belarus in 2013.

However, his time in England would come to an end as he joined Italian side Napoli on loan in 2014. Four appearances for the Serie A outift due to injuries saw him leave and end his contract with Swansea.

A move back to his hometown club then came about but further problems have now seem his call time on his career.